10 Best Pasalubong Ideas from Japan

Japan is a treasure trove of unique pasalubong, known locally as omiyage. These gifts not only reflect the rich culture and traditions of the country but also serve as delightful reminders of your travels. 

Here are ten must-buy pasalubong items from Japan that your friends and family would love to receive!

10 Pasalubong Ideas from Japan

When visiting Japan, bringing home pasalubong is a wonderful way to share your travel experiences with friends and family. From unique snacks to traditional crafts, these souvenirs reflect the rich culture and flavors of the country. With 1 PHP to Yen rate currently standing at around ¥2.63, you can enjoy a variety of affordable options that capture the essence of your journey. Here are ten fantastic pasalubong ideas from Japan that will delight your loved ones and remind you of your adventures!

1. Matcha Products

Matcha, or powdered green tea, is a quintessential Japanese product and one of the best pasalubong you can get from Japan. From matcha-flavored cookies to traditional matcha tea sets, there’s something for every green tea lover. You can find high-quality matcha in specialty shops in Kyoto, where the best matcha is produced.

2. Kokeshi Dolls

These charming wooden dolls are handcrafted and often painted with intricate designs. Originating from the Tohoku region, Kokeshi dolls make for beautiful decorative pieces and are considered symbols of good luck. They can be found in various sizes and styles across souvenir shops in Japan.

3. Omamori (Lucky Charms)

Omamori are traditional Japanese amulets that provide protection and good luck. Each omamori is specific to a certain purpose, such as health or success in studies, making them thoughtful gifts for loved ones. You can purchase them at shrines and temples throughout Japan.

4. Japanese Snacks

Bringing Japanese food home as your pasalubong is a great way to share your travel experience, with ramen and unique treats at the forefront. Instant ramen, like Peyangu, offers authentic flavors that are easily prepared at home. Other popular snacks include Senbei (rice crackers) and Dorayaki (pancakes filled with sweet red bean paste). These treats can be found in convenience stores and specialty shops.

5. Furoshiki (Wrapping Cloth)

Furoshiki is a traditional Japanese square wrapping cloth used for gifts, carrying items, or decoration. Originating over 1,200 years ago, it was initially designed to protect valuables.

Made from materials like cotton and silk, furoshiki comes in various sizes and often features traditional patterns. Its eco-friendly design allows for multiple uses, making it a sustainable alternative to single-use wrapping paper. 

6. Daruma Dolls

These hollow, round dolls symbolize perseverance and good luck. Traditionally used as a talisman for achieving goals, Daruma dolls are often painted red and come with blank eyes—one eye is filled in when a goal is set, and the other when it’s achieved. They can be found in many souvenir shops across Japan.

7. Ceramics and Pottery

Japanese ceramics are renowned for their craftsmanship and beauty. Each region has its distinct style; for example, Kutani ware from Ishikawa features vibrant colors, while Arita porcelain is known for its fine quality. You can find these exquisite pieces in pottery towns or specialized stores.

8. Sake Sets

For those who appreciate fine beverages, a traditional sake set makes an excellent pasalubong from Japan. These sets typically include a sake bottle (tokkuri) and cups (ochoko), often beautifully decorated with traditional motifs. They can be found in department stores or specialty sake shops.

9. KitKat

Japan has transformed the beloved KitKat chocolate bar into a cultural phenomenon, offering over 300 unique flavors that reflect its diverse culinary landscape! From matcha and wasabi to sweet potato and sake, each region boasts its own special variety, making them fun pasalubong. Popular options include the azuki (red bean) KitKat and the seasonal pumpkin pudding flavor.

10. Regional Sweets

Each prefecture in Japan has its own specialty sweets that make perfect pasalubong. For instance:

• Kobe Purin: A creamy pudding from Hyogo.

• Momiji Manju: Maple leaf-shaped cakes filled with red bean paste from Hiroshima.

• Kuri Daifuku: Chestnut-filled mochi from Nagano.

Maximize Your Trip

RCBC offers an enticing travel rewards program through its YGC Rewards Plus RCBC Bankard, designed to enhance your travel experience and make bringing home pasalubong even more rewarding. With this card, you earn rewards points for every purchase made, both locally and internationally, which can be converted into AIRMILES, cash rebates, or shopping vouchers—perfect for stocking up on unique Japanese snacks and souvenirs.

Additionally, the program includes free travel insurance, access to airport lounges, and a flexible installment plan for purchases abroad, allowing you to enjoy your travels without financial stress. Members can also take advantage of competitive Japanese exchange rates, ensuring that their spending in Japan goes further. 

For those seeking premium benefits, the RCBC Hexagon Club provides exclusive perks such as preferential rates on loans and deposits, enhanced rewards accumulation, and 24/7 concierge services for travel arrangements.

With these offerings, RCBC ensures that your journey is not only enjoyable but also financially rewarding, making it easier to indulge in all the delicious pasalubong Japan has to offer!

Bring Home A Bit of Japan with You

Traveling to Japan opens up a world of opportunities to delve into its rich culture through unique pasalubong that tell captivating stories. From indulging in delicious regional snacks to bringing home exquisitely handcrafted keepsakes, each omiyage serves as a meaningful connection to your journey, allowing your loved ones to share in the experience of Japan. Whether it’s savoring a local delicacy or gifting a beautifully crafted item, these souvenirs embody the essence of your travels and create lasting memories for everyone involved.